The Mauritanian Ouguiya (MRU) is one of the few world currencies that isn’t subdivided into 100 smaller units, but into 5 khoums. This unique system reflects Mauritania’s connection to traditional and religious numerical systems, as the country deeply values its cultural heritage. Introduced in 1973, the ouguiya replaced the CFA franc, a currency used by many countries at the time as part of French colonial history in Africa.

What’s more fascinating is that the late 2017 currency reform saw the introduction of redesigned ouguiya banknotes and coins, slashing one zero from the currency’s value. This revaluation aimed to simplify transactions and bookkeeping for its users without losing value, a bold move to modernize the nation’s monetary system while fostering economic stability.